Windows 98 SE released to PC makers

Microsoft releases the long-awaited update to its Windows 98 operating system to PC makers and CD-ROM manufacturers.

3 January 200212:43 am GMT

Microsoft today released the update to its Windows 98 operating
system to PC makers and CD-ROM manufacturers, ensuring that summer shoppers will
have access to the newest version of the software.

Shipping Windows 98 SE to manufacturers means that
PC makers will begin loading the revised operating system on computers
which will be available this summer. Microsoft announced the update in
March, reversing its earlier stance that Windows 98 would be the last
DOS-based consumer operating system release.

Windows 98 users can order an update to SE for $19.95 from Microsoft. The
CD-ROM will also be available at computer retailers this summer,
a company spokesman said.

The new product has many additions, including home-networking enabler Internet Connection Sharing,
Internet Explorer 5, Windows NetMeeting 3, and the Windows 98 Service
Pack, which contains bug fixes for the original version of Windows 98.
Each of these components except Internet Connection Sharing will be
available for free download.

Microsoft has been criticized in some circles for charging users for what
is essentially an OS update, especially as it is a departure from past
practices. There have been huge leaps in technologies like home networking
since Windows 98 was first released last June, Microsoft has argued in the
past, so a major revision including Internet Connection Sharing is
necessary.

"The upgrade has some things that you would not get from the Windows Update
site," said a Microsoft spokesman. Windows 98 SE also includes enhanced
support for hardware technologies like USB, IEEE 1394, and broadband
network connections.

Windows 98 SE will replace the original version of Windows 98 in retail
stores, and will have the same estimated retail price, $109. Most retailers
sell Windows 98 for about $89.

Microsoft initially targeted the first quarter of this year for the release
of its Windows 98 Service Pack.